The Arizona Cardinals are entering the 2025 offseason with attention focused on revitalizing their roster after achieving notable success during the 2024 regular season. With eight wins, doubling their output from the previous year, the Cardinals are not just about celebrating past achievements but are eagerly preparing for future challenges. General manager Monti Ossenfort is expected to take significant steps during free agency, but the immediate priority lies with re-signing key players set to hit the open market.
The team’s defense, which flourished under the guidance of solid leadership, is at the forefront of discussions around player re-signings. A major name on the Cardinals’ watch list is linebacker Kyzir White. Acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles, White proved to be instrumental during the season. With impressive stats—including 137 tackles, two and half sacks, and appearances on 94% of the defensive snaps—he transformed the linebacker unit. Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis praises White’s character and impact, noting, "There’s so many stories I could probably list to you, but the guy shows up every day with a smile on his face ready to go to work," reflecting why he deserves to remain with the team.
Alongside White, offensive lineman Evan Brown also stands out as a must-re-sign. Since his addition from Seattle last offseason, Brown has become integral to the offensive line, maintaining health through all 17 games and posting solid blocking metrics. His versatility to adapt positions as needed adds significant value, something the Cardinals aim to retain to keep quarterback Kyler Murray protected. With pressure mounting to maintain Murray’s health, his continued presence is deemed invaluable.
Further bolstering the defensive line, players like L.J. Collier and Roy Lopez have also drawn attention for potential contract discussions. After displaying growth throughout the season, Collier’s leadership and experience contributed vastly, emphasizing the Cardinals’ need for stability. "He brings somewhat of a veteran presence. He’s got some experience," said defensive line coach Derrick LeBlanc as they discussed the importance of Collier’s role.
Similarly, Lopez demonstrated resilience and adaptability, filling roles efficiently amid injury challenges. Both players are anticipated to be affordable, adding to the overall strategy of re-signing potential key contributors without breaking the bank.
Notably, Kelvin Beachum, who served as the swing tackle and anchored the offensive line, has expressed interest from both sides to retain his services moving forward. "We’ll see what transpires here in the next couple weeks," he stated, indicating his desire to keep playing as he navigates personal and professional commitments.
The Cardinals’ commitments also extend to players who completed the 2024 season on the practice squad. Recently, seven players were signed to what are termed "futures" contracts—an important move as these players transition to the official offseason roster when the new league year starts. This batch includes wide receiver Tejhaun Palmer and cornerback Jaden Davis from the draft class, indicating the organization’s willingness to invest time and resources on potential future stars.
Consolidated on the practice squad, the Cardinals also signed Andre Baccellia, cornerback Darren Hall, offensive lineman Matthew Jones, and defensive lineman Ben Stille to these contracts. Baccellia made consistent contributions, and Hall generated excitement with his preseason performances, reflecting the strategic focus the team has on developing young talent.
While planning for 2025, the Cardinals find themselves with $72.9 million of effective cap space, providing flexibility to execute their offseason strategies. This financial cushion facilitates both the retention of existing talent and the acquisition of new players who could shape the future.
Reflecting on recent games, quarterback Kyler Murray expressed optimism following their latest win against the San Francisco 49ers, stating, "I think we’re literally a couple plays away from being a 10 win team," illustrating the narrow margins separating the Cardinals from higher achievement levels. His remarks echo the sentiments throughout the organization as they seek to build momentum moving forward.
Finally, kicker Matt Prater remains under consideration amid discussions about his future with the franchise. Entering his 40s after concluding his 18th season, the team must ponder if he can continue to perform at the needed level, especially considering the replacement experience brought by Chad Ryland.
With offseason moves on the horizon, the Arizona Cardinals are poised for change, aiming to blend experienced players with budding talents, crafting the foundation for what they hope will be a successful 2025 season. The groundwork laid now will be pivotal as they strategize toward playoff aspirations and beyond.